Collado Villalba Boosts Biodiversity with New Wildlife Program

The Madrid mountain municipality introduces amphibian ponds, insect hotels, and bird nesting boxes, enhancing natural pest control and coexistence with wildlife.

Generic image of an insect hotel in a natural setting.
IA

Generic image of an insect hotel in a natural setting.

The Collado Villalba City Council has unveiled an innovative Wildlife Control and Management Program, aiming to enhance local biodiversity by creating habitats for beneficial species and managing populations like wild boars and parakeets, improving coexistence within the municipality.

This new plan introduces significant measures such as the installation of ponds for amphibians and hotels for insects, in addition to nesting boxes for insectivorous birds and bats. These initiatives aim to foster natural biological control over species considered harmful, such as mosquitoes, contributing to a more balanced ecosystem in Collado Villalba.
Among the highlighted improvements, the aviary at Peñalba Park has been expanded with new species and adaptations for their well-being. Furthermore, the wildlife service contract now includes the capture and removal of animals from private homes, offering a direct solution to residents.

"We must seek a balance between respect for nature and the elimination of risks for citizens."

Mariola Vargas · Mayor of Collado Villalba
The program continues the monitoring of invasive species like the Argentine parakeet and the Nile goose, as well as native fauna such as wild boars, pigeons, and rabbits, to prevent overpopulation. Combined actions have already significantly reduced damage caused by wild boars in urbanizations and parks, seeking a balance between natural protection and public safety.

"Among the methods of action, we always choose the most effective ones, which are also the least harmful to animals."

Adan Martínez · Councillor for Environment
The company Adda Ops, the service concessionaire, uses methods such as cage trapping with bait for the subsequent transfer of live animals to quarantine and health analysis centers. In 2025, 40 wild boars were captured, a number that has increased by three more so far in 2026. Passive measures such as sealing cat flaps, acoustic and olfactory repellents, and trap cameras to monitor population movements and size are also employed. Citizens can contact Adda Ops (638 841 011) or the Local Police (91 850 54 53) if they spot wild boars.